Sightseeing & Landmarks in Dubai

Downtown Dubai used to be called Downtown Burj Dubai and is home to several of the city’s key landmark sites, including the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Fountain. Downtown Dubai has a population of about 100,000 and covers an area of 2 square kilometres. On completion, it is estimated to cost in the region of US$20 billion.

When innovation meets hard work, the results are astounding, as seen in the man-made Palm Islands. An ambitious project visualized by Nakheel Properties, these reclaimed islands were constructed to accommodate the ever-growing tourist influx in Dubai. Shaped to resemble a palm tree, the Palm trio redefines luxury living.

Today, Dubai is all about modern, high-rise constructions, but a part of it remains umbilically connected to its roots, with the narrow lanes and wind towers of the historic Al Bastakiya district. The oldest residential district in Dubai, dating back to 1890, is significant for its old-time architecture and affiliation with the busy lives of Bur Dubai.

Located in what is known as ‘new Dubai’, Dubai Marina is a man-made canal city built to encourage luxurious lifestyles through exclusive waterfront constructions along the Persian Gulf shoreline. These include swanky hotels, aristocratic residential palaces and extravagant shopping and entertainment centres.

A major landmark in Dubai, Deira Clocktower has been a silent witness to the city’s changing face. It was built in 1963 to mark the country’s first oil exports. Also referred to as Dubai Clocktower, it stands at the gateway of Maktoum Bridge, one of the significant constructions in Dubai Creek, linking Bur Dubai and Deira.

Everyone dreams of staying at the Burj Al Arab, the most extravagant hotel in the world. This sail-shaped hotel is the world’s first seven-star hotel developed by Jumeirah Hotels & Resorts, which chooses its customers and not vice versa. Burj Al Arab’s billowing sail enjoys being a focus of public attention with its glittery gold interiors, ultra-spacious suites, and the heightened level of luxury offered.

The Dubai Fountain is a record-breaking musical fountain show located on the man-made Burj Khalifa Lake. Water is shot up in the air to an altitude of over 500 ft, accompanied by classical & contemporary music from around the world. The fountain opened in 2009, but in 2010 the fountain’s length was increased to 275m.

The giant frame in Zabeel Park Dubai, which opened in January 2018, features beautiful backdrops for visitors to take photos and selfies with. The Dubai Frame offers sweeping panoramic views of the city from 150m. The structure also features a transparent glass bridge connecting the two parallel towers to create the picture frame shape.

Admire the wonderful sights of Deira’s old town, the sparkling waters of the Arabian Gulf, the vast dunes of the Arabian desert and the high rises of Dubai Marina. Your experience at the Dubai Frame can be made even better if you visit the immersive gallery on the mezzanine floor, which features a ‘Virtual Metropolis’ made through projections, audio and visual presentations, and even curated scents and mists for an authentic retelling of the city’s origins. Guests can also go through a ‘vortex tunnel’ stimulation before revealing a virtual reality display of Dubai’s continued evolution into a futuristic city.

Dubai Water Canal is a 3.2km (1.9miles) waterway extending from the Creek in Old Dubai through Business Bay before finding its way back to the Arabian Gulf. The man-made canal, which opened in 2016, meanders through the centre of the city, transforming the face of Downtown Dubai and turning it into a waterfront destination. You can go for a leisurely stroll, a run or even cycle along the 6.4km (4 miles) waterfront on either side of the canal or along the five pedestrian bridges. Take a ferry or abra ride across the calm waters of the canal.

One of the most iconic Islamic landmarks in the Emirate is the Jumeirah Mosque. The mosque with unique ‘Open Doors. Open Minds’ policy welcomes visitors of all faiths to admire the surroundings and learn about Islam and the traditional Emirati culture. Massive enough to house up to 1,200 worshippers at a time, this beautiful building made from white stone features the markers of typical Islamic architecture like twin minarets and a large central dome. Visitors can take guided tours and are encouraged to ask questions and take photos of the marvellous interior. You can even sample traditional snacks, including coffee, dates and other Arabic food.